University of California President Robert C. Dynes issued the following statement today (May 8) regarding the appointment of Senator Jack Scott as the next chancellor of the California Community Colleges, effective Jan. 1, 2009.

"Senator Scott is a terrific choice to lead the California Community Colleges. He has provided distinguished leadership to public higher education in California, and he has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to young people and their educational opportunities.

"In Sacramento, Senator Scott has been a champion of student access to a high-quality public higher education, and his decision-making has been unfailingly principled and thoughtful. He will bring the same integrity and purpose to his new role leading the community college system.

"Senator Scott has been a friend over the years, and I offer him my heartfelt personal congratulations. The University of California looks forward to continued partnership with the California Community Colleges and the California State University in educating students, preparing the work force of our state, and driving the innovation that leads to economic growth."

More information about Senator Scott's appointment is available at www.cccco.edu.

For more information about the University of California: www.universityofcalifornia.edu